In Ihavandhoo, a group of women gathered each morning around a row of sewing machines learning a practical skill that could shape their livelihoods. For ten days, fifteen participants worked through the basics of sewing while also exploring how these skills might grow into small businesses. The machines used during the training were already part of the community, previously provided to the Maldives Women’s Association by the Pakistani High...
For one creative week in Kulhudhuffushi, participants gathered to learn the craft of punch needle embroidery. Guided by Ms. Aminath Shihana, 25 women learned the particular art of pushing yarn through fabric with a punch needle to form raised, looped patterns that build colourful textured designs. Slow and careful first attempts settled into place and by the end of the week, their finished pieces represented growing confidence and pride in...
In Vaikaradhoo, a small group of women gather each month around tables covered with textile and soft filling as their careful stitches and patient hands bring to life the brightly coloured fabric turtles and crabs meant for tiny hands. It began as a training programme in 2023 and has now grown into a livelihood initiative benefitting 14 households. In 2025, the women produced their first full batches of soft toys through a partnership supported...
